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Great White Shark Confirmed in Buzzards Bay for First Time in Over 20 Years

Massachusetts marine officials are monitoring shark movements to inform safety measures for recreational water users.

Photos from the encounter show two college students reacting with shock and horror as the ocean predator swims by.
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Overview

  • Two college students, Margaret Bowles and Maddie Cronin, safely returned to shore after encountering a great white shark off Stony Beach on July 4.
  • The sighting was reported through the Sharktivity app and confirmed by Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries experts.
  • Scientists attribute the shark’s unexpected presence to higher seal numbers and cooler summer water temperatures in Buzzards Bay.
  • Fisheries officials have launched regular surveys in Buzzards Bay to track shark movements and issue safety advisories.
  • Ongoing research will analyze seal population dynamics and temperature patterns to better predict future shark visits and refine beach guidelines.